Despite a dwindling demand for mid-size family sedans here, the 2019 Nissan Altima stays in the fight with an all-new 6th generation. The forceful front fascia is inspired by the Vmotion 2.0 concept. And overall, It’s now lower, longer, wider. 

Horsepower for the mostly new 2.5-liter I-4 gets bumped up to 188. For the first time, all-wheel drive is available with the base engine. The optional V6 is replaced with the new variable-compression-ratio turbocharged 2.0-liter I-4 from the INFINITI QX50. 

Here it is retuned for 248 horsepower, but only for front-wheel drive. Nissan says the VC-turbo gets 29-MPG Combined… 3 more than the V6. And both engines work with Nissan’s latest Xtronic CVT transmission.

The suspension geometry remains basically the same, but retuning adds to the Altima’s nimbleness.

The interior feels more open, with the 8-inch touchscreen moving higher in the dash Automatic Emergency Braking is standard… with a longer list of advanced safety features and ProPILOT Assist added to upper trims. 

Thankfully, Nissan is not giving up on cars which still make up a third of our market. The 2019 Nissan Altima is at dealers now starting at under $24,000.

Specifications

  • Engine: 2.5 liter
  • Horsepower: 188
  • Price: Starting under $24,000